- States and civil rights groups filed lawsuits against President Trump’s executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship, arguing it violates the USConstitution
- Trump’s directive sought to block citizenship for children born in the US if neither parent was a UScitizen or legal permanent resident, a move that directly challenged the 14th Amendment
- The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and other immigrant advocacy organisations quickly joined in the legal battles, with an expectant mother also challenging the order
Democratic-led states and civil rights groups launched multiple lawsuits on Tuesday, January 21, challenging President Donald Trump's attempt to end birthright citizenship, marking the first significant legal battle of his administration.
Following his inauguration on January 20, Trump, a Republican, directed federal agencies to block citizenship to children born in the US if neither parent is a US citizen or legal permanent resident.
22 states, others sue Trump over birthright citizenship
In reaction to this, a coalition of 22 states, along with the District of Columbia and the city of San Francisco, filed lawsuits in federal courts in Boston and Seattle, accusing Trump of violating the Constitution.
"Today's immediate lawsuit sends a clear message to the Trump administration that we will stand up for our residents and their basic constitutional rights," Matthew Platkin, New Jersey Attorney General stated.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), immigrant advocacy organisations, and an expectant mother also filed similar legal challenges shortly after Trump signed the executive order.
What is birthright citizenship?
Birthright citizenship, a long-standing legal principle, guarantees that anyone born on US soil automatically becomes a citizen, regardless of their parent's immigration status.
This right was consecrated in the 14th Amendment, which was ratified in 1868 following the Civil War. It says, "All persons born or naturalised in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside."
While supporters argued the amendment protects this right, Trump and his allies contended that the interpretation needs to be revised to impose stricter requirements for citizenship.
US H-1B visa to permit multiple employment in 2025
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced new H-1B visa rules, allowing workers to hold multiple jobs.
Eligibility for multiple jobs required each employer to file a separate H-1B petition.